Casual bakery-cafe chain.
Average cost: <$10
With all of the interesting independent restaurants in Chicago, it is rare to find a chain restaurant that is worth eating at for any reason other than the price. Panera, a gourmet soup/sandwich/bakery chain, is one of those exceptions.
Freshly baked breads (over 20 varieties), bagels and pastries are the name of the game, but let's not forget about the sandwiches, hand-tossed salads and rotating list of soups, all of which can be served in a sourdough bread bowl if you so choose. Round out your reasonably-priced meal with a fountain soda or one of several coffee or tea drinks, both of which, incidentally, go well with a cookie, brownie or mini bundt cake.
Panera official website: http://www.panera.com/
Panera (Diversey) was mentioned in these articles...
Wi-Fi Findings, 8/6/07
Tired of working from home, Erin embarks on a tour of spots—from bars to coffee shops—where she can log on sans fee.
